Bengals News From Madrid Ft Zac Taylor, Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, Dexter Lawrence | Bengals Rumors

The Cincinnati Bengals have been enjoying their Spanish adventure, but head coach Zac Taylor and his players are determined to ensure the trip to Madrid does not distract them from Sunday's important NFL meeting with the Atlanta Falcons at the Santiago Bernabéu.

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Speaking to the media on Thursday, November 5, Taylor stressed that maintaining normal preparations was the biggest priority after travelling across the Atlantic. He said the team had deliberately arrived early to allow players to adjust to the time difference, with food and scheduling particularly important.

Taylor described Madrid as a beautiful city and encouraged Spanish fans to embrace the Bengals, wear their colours and get behind the team. He also praised the opportunity to help grow American football internationally, while acknowledging that his side still had room for improvement despite a positive run of results.

The coach also highlighted the threat posed by Atlanta, particularly running back Bijan Robinson, quarterback Michael Penix Jr and receiver Drake London. He described the Falcons as a well-balanced team with plenty of offensive weapons.

Wide receiver Tee Higgins spoke about the excitement of visiting Spain, particularly as it was his first time crossing the Atlantic. He admitted he isn't a fan of flying and struggled to sleep during the journey, but said bringing his family along made the experience even more special. He had enjoyed exploring Madrid, including Plaza Mayor, and was particularly excited by the possibility of Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappé attending Sunday's game. Higgins marvelled at the Frenchman's speed and ability with a football.

Defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence was equally enthusiastic about the experience, although he had one major complaint: his hotel bed! "My bed is undefeated," he joked. Lawrence said players needed to balance enjoying the country with looking after their bodies, emphasising walking, hydration and recovery. He also recognised the importance of Sunday's game as an opportunity to introduce American football to new supporters.

Center Ted Karras described the trip as an unbelievable experience. He was particularly delighted to discover he had been allocated the locker previously used by Spanish football sensation Lamine Yamal at the national team's training facility. Calling it a great honour, Karras congratulated Spain on its World Cup success and said the Bengals ultimately needed to win to make the trip worthwhile.

Running back Chase Brown discussed the practical challenges of maintaining his recovery routine overseas. He explained that accessing saunas and cold tubs whenever he wanted was more difficult than at home, where he normally uses them in the mornings and after practice.

The overriding message from all five was clear: enjoy Madrid, embrace the occasion, but make sure the Bengals leave Spain with a victory.

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